ASTM G48-03

1.1 These test methods cover procedures for the determination of the resistance of stainless steels and related alloys to pitting and crevice corrosion (see Terminology G 15) when exposed to oxidizing chloride environments. Six procedures are described and identified as Methods A, B, C, D, E, and F.

1.1.1 Method A—Ferric chloride pitting test.

1.1.2 Method B—Ferric chloride crevice test.

1.1.3 Method C—Critical pitting temperature test for nickel-base and chromium-bearing alloys.

1.1.4 Method D—Critical crevice temperature test for nickel-base and chromium-bearing alloys.

1.1.5 Method E—Critical pitting temperature test for stainless steels.

1.1.6 Method F—Critical crevice temperature test for stainless steels.

1.2 Method A is designed to determine the relative pitting resistance of stainless steels and nickel-base, chromium-bearing alloys, whereas Method B can be used for determining both the pitting and crevice corrosion resistance of these alloys. Methods C, D, E and F allow for a ranking of alloys by minimum (critical) temperature to cause initiation of pitting corrosion and crevice corrosion, respectively, of stainless steels, nickel-base and chromium-bearing alloys in a standard ferric chloride solution.

1.3 These tests may be used to determine the effects of alloying additives, heat treatment, and surface finishes on pitting and crevice corrosion resistance.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Other units are given in parentheses for information only.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.